The Global Systems Laboratory (GSL) is one of ten NOAA Research laboratories and is located in Boulder, Colorado. Our research improves environmental prediction models, develops state-of-the-science decision support tools and visualization systems, and uses high-performance computing technology to support a Weather-Ready Nation.
GSL strives to advance its workforce scientifically, technically, and professionally. We are also committed to increased diversity equity, inclusion and accessibility as well as a strong foundation for career growth.
The research we do improves weather data, forecasts, and computing techniques used by industry, decision-makers, and stakeholders.
Our work makes the nation's operations safer and more efficient, helps protect lives and property, and promotes economic prosperity.
GSL’s models and technology help emergency managers respond to weather threats quickly.
Our tools help the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reduce air traffic delays and increase safety.
GSL’s weather models enable the energy industry to plan for the variable nature of wind and solar energy.
Decision support systems and smoke models developed by GSL help with wildfire operations.
GSL has a history of successfully transitioning atmospheric research into advanced products and services for weather operations.
Learn more about R2OWe are the leader in developing and evolving regional weather models. The Rapid Refresh, High-Resolution Rapid Refresh, and RAP Smoke are just a few.
Learn more about our modelsGSL is part of a major community effort to develop a coupled, comprehensive Earth modeling system.
Read how GSL supports the UFSDr. Kingfield is honored for skillfully navigating the COVID-19 pandemic to implement the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) Hazard Services workflows that will greatly modernize the forecast and warning operations at National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Forecast Offices (WFOs). The operational implementation of Hazard Services workflows became significantly delayed...
GSL is proud to announce our own recipients of the prestigious American Meteorological Society (AMS) awards for 2023! Dr. Stanley G. Benjamin (retired) received the Cleveland Abbe Award for Distinguished Service to Atmospheric Science. Dr. Benjamin has an outstanding scientific and service record at the nexus of meteorological research and...
The Camp Fire in Paradise, California, was the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California's history, and the most expensive natural disaster in the world in 2018. The wildfire claimed 88 lives and blanketed millions of people in Northern California with dense smoke for two weeks. The Camp Fire is...
Lead research and directed development through the transition of environmental data, models, products, tools, and services to support commerce, protect life and property, and promote a scientifically literate public.